Greatness
ˈɡreɪtnəs
Definitions
2 meaningsThe state or condition of being great; excellence; eminence; magnitude.
ˈɡreɪtnəs
The quality of being impressively large or extensive.
The historian was captivated by the greatness of the ancient civilizations.
💡 Simply: Greatness is when something is super big, important, or impressive, like the world's biggest pizza or a really, really good job. It's all about being awesome in some way!
👶 For kids: Being super, super, super good, big, or important!
More Examples
The city’s greatness was reflected in its grand architecture and thriving culture.
Achieving such greatness takes years of dedication and hard work.
How It's Used
"The sheer greatness of the Grand Canyon is awe-inspiring."
"The greatness of the Roman Empire is often debated."
Moral or spiritual excellence; nobility of character.
ˈɡreɪtnəs
The state or quality of being morally or spiritually excellent; noble.
The speaker emphasized the greatness of compassion and empathy.
💡 Simply: Greatness can also mean being a really, really good person, someone who is kind, fair, and does what is right. Think of someone who helps others or stands up for what they believe in.
👶 For kids: Being super, super, super good inside, like being kind and helpful!
More Examples
The leader was admired for her moral greatness and integrity.
He aspired to achieve personal greatness through his actions.
How It's Used
"The hero's greatness was defined by his unwavering moral compass."
"Philosophers often discuss the greatness of the human spirit."
Idioms & expressions
Achieve greatness
To attain a high level of achievement, success, or importance.
"She aspired to achieve greatness in the field of medicine."
From Middle English 'greatnesse', derived from 'great' + '-ness'. It signifies the state or quality of being great, reflecting qualities like importance, excellence, or eminence.
The concept of 'greatness' has been used throughout history to describe rulers, empires, and individuals of exceptional achievement and character. Found in many historical texts.
Memory tip
Think of the 'great' in greatness, reminding you of something magnificent in size, scale, or importance.
Practice
Word Origin
Suffix: -ness (suffix denoting a state or quality)